Why using correct pronouns saves lives

Trigger warning: This blog discusses suicide and suicide statistics. 

The mental health of trans and non-binary people
Research published by The Trevor Project in 2022 shows that 59% of transgender men and boys, 48% of transgender women and girls, and 53% of non-binary youth have seriously considered suicide. Let that sink in for a moment, because it means that on average 1 in 2 trans and non-binary young people find life unbearable, experience suicidal thoughts, and see no way forward. 1 in 5 trans and non-binary young people actually attempt to take their own life—meaning 20% have lost the will to keep fighting. The mental health of these young people has reached a critical low point. This is something we all need to take responsibility for and address together.

How do these statistics compare with other groups? 
You might be curious how these numbers compare to other young people. Among cisgender LGB youth (those who identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual and feel comfortable with their sex assigned at birth), 1 in 10 attempt suicide. We can recognise a clear difference in mental health between LGB youth and trans and non-binary youth. Additionally, other identity-related factors affect these numbers. Queer youth who are Black, Indigenous, or People of Color (BIPOC) are twice as likely to attempt suicide compared to white queer youth.

What can we do to save lives? 
In the Trevor Project study, trans and non-binary youth have expressed that social support from family and community makes a big difference. And that’s where each of us can help—social support is something we can offer together. One of the top five ways to provide this support is by correctly using a person’s name and pronouns. This is further supported by Trevor Project’s 2023 research, which found that trans and non-binary youth report lower rates of suicide attempts when people in their lives consistently respect their pronouns. Using correct pronouns, in this case, truly can save lives.

Beyond using someone’s pronouns respectfully yourself, you can actively contribute to normalising the use of pronouns in your surroundings. Simple proactive adjustments like introducing yourself with your pronouns, asking others for theirs, and adding your pronouns in your email, Instagram bio, or WhatsApp profile can help create a culture of acceptance that greatly supports trans and non-binary people. 

Are you struggling with suicidal thoughts and need someone to talk to? Reach out to 113 for support.

*The Trevor Project is a US-based NGO with a mission to prevent suicide among LGBTQ youth. Alongside providing counselling in the U.S., they conduct large-scale research on the mental health of trans and non-binary youth. Their 2022 survey included over 30,000 LGBTQ youth, of whom 48% were trans or non-binary, 19% questioning their gender, and 33% cisgender.

*BIPOC - BIPOC stands for Black, Indigenous and People of Color. Pronounced “bye-pock,” this is a term die specifically intended to focus on the experiences of black and inheemse groups and show solidarity between communities of color.